Spring means warmer days, blooming flowers, and a chance to give your plumbing system the attention it needs. As the soil warms up and temperatures climb in Redmond, WA, your pipes and fixtures start handling new demands. Checking on your plumbing now helps you catch small problems before they become bigger issues. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing®, we understand how seasonal changes affect your home’s plumbing. From inspecting outdoor spigots to testing sump pumps, a little maintenance now can save you from an irritating inconvenience down the road.
Checking Your Sump Pump Before Spring Rains Hit
A sump pump can save your basement from unwanted water when it rains. That quiet appliance sitting in a pit or low spot rarely gets much attention until it’s needed. But when heavy rain hits, you expect it to work right away. If the pump doesn’t respond or doesn’t have the power to move water away fast enough, that’s when problems start. Checking your sump pump before spring’s rainiest weeks can help you avoid headaches later. The simplest way to check your sump pump is by dumping a bucket of water into the basin. If it works right away and gets rid of the water, it's working. You should take a closer look if it stops working or fails. The float switch could get stuck or be pressed against the side of the bowl. Sometimes, the power supply isn’t working properly, or debris has clogged the discharge line. Those kinds of problems won’t fix themselves. Taking a few minutes to test the pump before the rain picks up can make all the difference. Even if your sump pump responds when you test it, regular maintenance makes a difference. Pumps have parts that wear down from regular use, especially during heavy spring rainfall. Checking the backup battery to see if your pump has one also matters. Batteries lose power with age, and you don’t want to discover that when the power’s already out. Taking the time to test your sump pump gives you a little more peace of mind before the rain arrives. If you’re not comfortable handling the inspection yourself, call a professional to check that the sump pump works correctly.
Fixing and Finding Hidden Leaks
Chilly weather can make pipes shrink and shift. A tiny crack in a pipe or fitting can grow into a bigger issue if it’s left undetected. Spring offers a chance to look for leaks around your home before they escalate. Some leaks show clear signs, like damp patches or puddles where water doesn’t belong. Others stay hidden behind walls or under floors, gradually causing damage you might not notice right away. Mysterious dripping sounds can help you detect leaks. Looking at your water bill can also provide clues. A sudden spike without a clear reason can point to a problem somewhere in the system. The same goes for reduced water pressure. If the flow feels weaker than usual, it’s worth investigating. Spring maintenance offers a chance to walk through your home and check those trouble spots. Pipes under sinks, around appliances, or leading to outdoor spigots often need a closer look. Outdoor faucets and hoses can also cause leaks if winter temperatures damage them. While some leaks are easy to fix, others require more thorough repairs. Catching them early keeps things simpler and prevents minor problems from getting worse.
Maintaining Your Water Heater for Better Efficiency
Daily hot water use can slowly cause wear and tear on your system. This happens more often when your water heater works harder during colder months to meet increased demand. Sediment buildup remains one of the most common problems affecting water heaters. Over time, minerals from the water collect at the bottom of the tank. These minerals form a layer that affects efficiency. That layer acts as insulation, making the heater work harder to warm the water above it. The longer it sits, the harder the heater must work. Flushing your water heater at least once a year helps reduce those effects. Spring is a good time to handle that task since it clears out the buildup before warmer weather increases your hot water use. Flushing involves draining the tank completely, letting any settled particles flow out with the water. The process isn’t complicated, but it does involve more than just turning a valve and making sure the heater powers off. Use a hose to direct the water away from the house, then check for rust or other issues. Older water heaters often need extra attention since they tend to collect sediment faster. Taking the time to flush the system and inspecting the components helps your heater work better and last longer. If you’re not comfortable handling the process yourself, a professional inspection is a good alternative.
The Benefits of a Whole-Home Plumbing Inspection
Spring maintenance isn’t just about fixing problems, but it’s about keeping things running smoothly before issues start. Scheduling a whole-home plumbing inspection offers a detailed look at your system’s condition. A professional can check for leaks, test water pressure, inspect water heaters, and make sure your pipes function properly. It’s a way to stay ahead of problems instead of waiting for something to break. During an inspection, professionals look over fixtures, appliances, and connections throughout your home. They test outdoor spigots, check for signs of corrosion, and make sure drainage works as it should. Even small issues like a sluggish drain can hint at deeper problems. Sudden temperature shifts can stress pipes, especially if they’re older or made from outdated materials. When a professional takes a closer look at your setup, they can offer advice about potential upgrades or repairs that improve efficiency and safety. Scheduling an inspection each spring helps you keep track of your system’s condition and gives you more confidence moving forward.
Why Seasonal Maintenance Matters
Plumbing often goes unnoticed until something stops working. But giving your system a little attention in the spring helps everything function more reliably throughout the year. Testing your sump pump, checking for leaks, and flushing your water heater all play a part in keeping your plumbing in good shape. Staying ahead with maintenance saves time and money compared to emergency fixes. Taking care of minor issues before they escalate makes a real difference. Routine upkeep helps you catch potential problems early, so you can address them before they turn into expensive repairs. It’s less about tackling everything at once and more about handling small concerns before they grow into bigger headaches. Scheduling seasonal maintenance also gives you a chance to ask questions and get advice. A professional can help you understand your system’s condition and recommend any changes or improvements that could make a difference. Spring maintenance provides a great opportunity to tackle water pressure concerns, leaks, or other plumbing issues and get your system running smoothly again. Tending to your plumbing system now makes the warmer months easier to handle. You’ll have a sense of security knowing your sump pump works, your pipes aren’t leaking and your water heater runs efficiently. If something does seem off, calling a professional gives you the help you need to fix it properly.
Give Your Plumbing a Look Over
Giving your plumbing system some attention each spring can make a big difference. Clearing drains and inspecting pipes can help improve how your plumbing system performs. It can also prevent some of the most common avoidable plumbing issues. If you'd prefer some extra help, a professional can take care of complicated tasks. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® provides the knowledge and attention needed to keep your home's plumbing working its best. Call us today to set up your seasonal check-up.
